Week 2 Homework Term 4

Write an introductory paragraph in response to the question we have been working on in class. “Young men go to war because it provides them with the opportunity for adventure.” To what extent is this borne out by Peter Weir’s film, “Gallipoli”? In your response you must discuss the way the film positions viewers to understand its message. Post to your blog before Tuesday's lesson.

Peter Weir’s film Gallipoli presents the notion that many young men volunteer in war as an opportunity for adventure, however it also proposes other reasons as to why they take part, including for the act of patriotism and an assertion of bravery to rid the image of a coward. The movie clearly enforces just how much precious life is wasted at war, and how it simply a killing spree and much less an adventure or glorious responsibility. Different techniques are used to portray this message - the initial excitement the soldiers share, the young ages at which they enrol, their interest and pride to take take part - which is all contradicted once they start to experience war and it's horrific nature. Perhaps one of the most comforting scenes where this idea of adventure and duty is contradicted and shamed is when dozens of young Australian soldiers are sent out on the front line despite knowing they will die, running out unarmed and helpless. It is through scenes such as this that Gallipolli creates the impression that despite theories, despite the glorification of war, it really is just a waste of the beautiful young men that were sent - destroying everything they were, and ever would be.